You are accepted. Three simple but very powerful words. Years ago I picked up this book called, The Ragamuffin Gospel, by Brennan Manning. It’s a book about a Contemporary Christian Artist, Rich Mullins. I was a fan of Rich’s work which is what directed me to the book in the first place.

At the time I hadn’t read much, it wasn’t something I enjoyed then, mostly because I was busy raising two people. So there I was, finally having a moment to myself. Laying on my bed taking in a weekend afternoon with a few minutes to read, when I stumbled upon this statement, “You are accepted.”

Suddenly tears rolled down my cheeks because it was the first time anyone told me that I was enough and accepted. Have you ever felt that way? Like you had to prove your self-worth to someone else or maybe everyone else?

Let me guess, you work really hard at everything you do, relationships, parenting, at work you, “do what it takes” and “never settle for less”. Yet you do settle. I’m guessing that all the time and energy you spend proving that you’re skilled enough, smart enough, educated enough, experienced enough and loyal enough as well… enough. You’ve settled.

What if…stay with me, what if you believed you were accepted exactly as you are, right now at this moment. How would that shift things in your life? How would you treat yourself differently? How would you show up in the world?

You would likely begin to feel this feeling that we all search for…ultimate joy and happiness. So what if you don’t have the same education as your co-worker, who cares if you are carrying around a few extra pounds around your waist, and really if you don’t stay out all night working or doing things you don’t really want to do anyway, what will happen if you listen to your heart and be loyal to you? You will stop settling for what you think is right and actually do what is right for you.

I’ve spent years feeling like I didn’t measure up to someone. There will always be someone with more education, more experience, more whatever, but there is only ONE person with my education, my experience and my passion for the people who cross my path. At the end of the day taking care of yourself is the best possible way to be accepted.

You’ve heard it said before, show people how to treat you. It begins with you. I’ve seen too many people spend their entire life proving themselves and their self-worth to others. Yet, when they find themselves in need, rarely, are those people available to hold your hand, give you a hug or just be present. Why? Because there will always be someone else proving their worth.

Do yourself a favor. Rather than wait for the day that you’ve arrived. (I mean seriously if you’re always proving yourself, how do you know when you’re done? It’s literally never-ending.) Learn to listen to your heart. Listen to what the Ragamuffin gospel says and know that, YOU are accepted. The world is waiting for your story.

If you want to learn how to break these chains of limiting labels, please reach out to me. You’re not alone, and you are accepted. Let’s chat!

Check out paperless post. A great way to send sunshine spread joy, and encourage others.